Thesis Vs Dissertation (Differences and Similarities Explained)

Many people use these terms thesis vs dissertation interchangeably to mean the same thing.

There are even education departments and academic institutions that use these terms differently, making them all the more confusing and therefore difficult to understand.

In this guide, you’ll learn about thesis vs dissertation so you know exactly what they mean when someone in your academic institution mentions the terms.

We’ll look at: 

• What a dissertation is
• What a thesis is
• The similarities between a thesis and a dissertation and
• The differences between a thesis and a dissertation

The primary difference between a dissertation and a thesis is the level at which a learner completes them. You’ll write a thesis if you enroll in a master’s degree courses and work on a dissertation to earn a doctoral degree.

You’ll have to do a lot of research and writing in both cases. And although the task can seem overwhelming, especially given the scope of the research and the length of the assignment, starting early can go a long way to help you finish a thesis or dissertation within the respective deadline.

What is a Dissertation in Academic Writing?

A dissertation is a written assignment that features original or expanded research by a PhD student on a new or existing topic. The doctoral student chooses the topic they would like to explore within their field of study, conducts their own original research, and then presents their results (findings) in writing.

There are two reasons why writing a dissertation is worth it. First, it proves the knowledge and research skills of a doctoral student. Second, it presents an opportunity for the student to add to the existing body of knowledge in their respective field.

The time to start working on a dissertation varies from institution to institution.

In some schools, students have to complete a doctoral course, sit through a series of examinations, and then spend at least 24 weeks writing the dissertation. Other schools integrate dissertation writing into the curriculum, allowing the doctoral to start their research early.

In dissertation writing, a student has the opportunity to present a hypothesis or a new theory in their field of research, which they can use to either disapprove or support a previously presented theory in existing research.

They also have the option to add to the existing research, in which case they have to consider a unique angle that can establish their research in a unique direction.

Perhaps the most intimidating part of working on a dissertation is the defense stage because you can’t be certain of the outcome.

However, you can work closely with the assigned committee throughout the writing process to point your research and writing in the right direction.

What is a Thesis in Academic Writing?

A thesis is an academic piece of writing done by students who wish to graduate from a Master’s degree program.

The purpose of writing a thesis is to examine whether students can express their knowledge within the subject they’ve been studying in their Master’s degree program.

Some universities require Master’s students to write undergraduate theses, but these tend to be shorter with less depth compared to the Master’s degree theses.

As with dissertation, thesis writing requires that a student choose a topic of their interest in their field of study.

The minor difference is that the topic has to be narrow. For example, if you’re taking a course in computer science, you might focus on a topic such as the effect of internet of things in textile industry.

Next, look into existing research on the topic and then use the knowledge gathered to construct an academic argument. You will finalize the process by using already existing research to prove your argument. 

Thesis vs Dissertation: What are the Similarities?

In dissertation and thesis writing, PhD and Master’s students have to choose topics to explore. We recommend that you choose a topic that interests you so you can have an easy time researching, writing, presenting, and defending your findings.

Thesis and dissertation writing requires a student to demonstrate their ability to think and express their view in writing.

Both assignments requires defense, in which case the selected committee asses a student’s ability to present their academic findings in their field of study.

Both assignments have specific deadlines that students have to observe. Start working on your thesis or dissertation early so you don’t end up making unnecessary excuses when it’s almost time to submit your work.

Thesis vs Dissertation: What Are The Differences?

The following table explains the difference between a thesis and a dissertation:

Final Thoughts on Dissertation vs Thesis

As you can see, the main difference between a thesis vs dissertation is the academic level at which students have to complete them. In other words, you will work on a thesis to earn a master’s degree and write a dissertation to earn a doctorate degree at the end of your academic year. 

Writing a thesis or dissertation shouldn’t be difficult either. That’s because your academic journey equips you with the knowledge necessary to write an authentic and comprehensive assignment.

The most important rule when it comes to doing such assignments is to start early. Never wait until it’s too late to start writing your thesis or dissertation. Last minute rush may work well for an essay, but it won’t be quite as effective for thesis or dissertation writing. 

We hope this guide clears the confusion on thesis vs dissertation.